Abia Onyike, a former Commissioner in Ebonyi State, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

Onyike, who previously served as Special Adviser on Media Relations under former Governor Sam Egwu and as Commissioner for Information during Governor Martin Elechi’s administration, made the announcement at a ceremony on Wednesday in Owutu Edda Ward, Edda Local Government Area.

A former Deputy National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Onyike explained in a statement on Thursday that his decision to switch parties was motivated by his belief in Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru’s efforts to restore good governance in the state.

Read Also: Wike Speaks On Atiku’s Chances In Clinching PDP Ticket For 2027 Election

He said, “My decision to join the APC is because of the need to build a solid alliance of support for Governor Nwifuru, who has taken steps to restore good governance and inclusive politics in Ebonyi State.

“Politics is local, and we are driven by our own developmental aspirations in our state. I am joining other progressive forces in the state to sustain and consolidate the current peaceful atmosphere prevalent in the state under Governor Nwifuru.”

The Chairman of the APC in Owutu Edda Ward, Mr. Oko Ogbuagu, expressed the party’s happiness in welcoming Onyike to its fold.

“Onyike is a tested hand. He is a man of the people, and his entry into our party will enhance its fortunes in future elections,” he said.